Philippians 4:11-13 - Got Contentment?

 Philippians 4:13 "I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." (NLT)

That verse has become a popular one, applied to any number of challenges one might face: athletic prowess, endurance for one's work, fortitude to face temptation, etc.

But the verses just before that are about having strength for something in particular...
"11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." (Php 4:11-13, New Living Translation)

God gave Paul the strength to be content. It was contentment in some very trying situations. Food is considered a basic human necessity, and sometimes he didn't even have that.

The other day I was talking with one of the residents in our senior care facility. It could be disheartening under normal circumstances to be confined to a Long Term Care facility. But even with threats of COVID around her, despite being quarantined from friends and loved ones, she said, "There are good days, there are bad days, but you thank God, either way" 

I'd call that contentment!

Father, forgive my whining. But I need more than simply comparing my situation to others. I need more than hearing that my problems are dwarfed by the challenges that others face. And I can't just "think" my way into being happy with every situation.
What I need is strength from You to be content, regardless of all circumstances.
By the grace of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.